Leeds United started their season with a topsy-turvy form winning neither of their first two fixtures. A 3-3 home draw against Portsmouth saw the club get only a point in their opening fixture.
The second game was a 0-3 home loss against Middlesbrough which was a stark contrast to their pre-season campaign. Losing this match meant The Whites won’t be going any further in the EFL Cup.
The 49ers suffered another hit as Georginio Rutter verbally agreed on a deal with Brighton and Hove Albion. This was the fourth major departure this summer following Crysencio Summerville, Archie Gray and Glen Kamara.
There have been no new major signings yet and there has also been a lot of speculation regarding The Whites’ promotion hopes this season. Although, West Bromwich Albion coach Carlos Corberán looks confident regarding Leeds’ prospects this season.
“In my opinion they have a very strong squad. Until now it’s true that they’ve lost some players, but I believe they’ll be focused on making changes to strengthen the squad. They have a very, very competitive squad.”
“Some of the players that they have on the bench right now were Premier League players two years ago. That shows the size of their squad and the quality of the players within it.”
-Carlos Corberán
The Spaniard praised the team’s quality despite losing a few players this season. The WBA coach still sees Leeds United as a worthy opponent for the promotion fight this season.
QUIZ: Can you name the Leeds game these 10 goal celebrations are from?
Leeds United’s financial commitment to Hoffenheim amid Rutter’s exit
Credits: Imago Images
As Georginio Rutter packs his bags, he’ll leave behind a £40 million transfer fee. This money can be used to rejuvenate Leeds’ squad so that they can be the top contenders for promotion this season.
However, it looks like there are some past clauses that The Whites will have pending if the deal goes through. According to the German outlet Kicker, United will have to pay £4.2 million to Rutter’s previous employers Hoffenheim following his move to AMEX Stadium.
This will be a significant cut from the transfer fee as it will take away more than 10% of the same. This amount reflects on the add-ons that weren’t reached after the Frenchman’s move to Elland Road.
It is unclear as to whether this is due to a sell-on clause or any pending add-ons that The Whites have left pending. But one thing is confirmed, this amount must be paid in one full payment.
